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The 38 most expensive looking pieces on the high street this week

From H&M to Mango... You can thank us later

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Orion Scott
Fashion Features Writer
Updated: 6 days ago
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When it comes to our purse strings, there is a lot of value in scouring the British high street for a bargain. While many of us covet designer brands we see on our favourite A-listers, it is a relief to know that we can still look incredible in pieces that our favourite stores such as Arket and River Island.

Shopping on the high street does not mean we should have to scrimp on style, in fact there are plenty of retailers who are creating eco-conscious and luxurious garments which wouldn't look out of place in a high-end boutique. 

To make your budget friendly shopping a little easier we've put together a list of our favourite pieces this week.

Hello! Fashion shares the most expensive-looking pieces to shop on the high street this week: 

  1. 1/38

    Embellished jeans from H&M

    Rhinestone Embellished Jeans

    H&M

    Why it looks expensive: Embellished jeans are currently having a major street style moment, worn and loved by the likes of Dua Lipa and Charli XCX.

    Editor's note: It's hard to find the perfect baggy jeans and these affordable options are the real deal. Style with heels and a button-up shirt or with an oversized graphic tee and sneakers.

  2. 2/38

    Mini-shopper shoulder bag from Mango

    Mini-shopper shoulder bag

    Mango

    Why it looks expensive: Jacquemus, Coach, Acne Studios and Loewe all love a bold-hued handbag.

    Editor's note: Finding a handbag that's both cute and practical is no easy feat, but rest assured this sleek red option from Mango is perfect in more ways than one. I love the size and adjustable strap options, perfect for when your outfit needs either a cross body or shoulder option.

  3. 3/38

    Ladies Stripe Jumper

    Round Neck Stripe Sweater

    Why it looks expensive: Striped knits are a French girl essential, especially when adorned with gold buttons.

    Editor's note: With the weather starting to cool down the need for a long sleeve layer is essential. I love this button-up option and think it would look overly cute with your favourite jeans and plain tank top or left open over a sundress.

  4. 4/38

    Embellished Slingback Pumps

    Embellished Slingback Pumps

    & Other Stories

    Why it looks expensive: You can't deny these give off major Miu Miu vibes...

    Editor's note: Sling back pumps are the easiest and chicest way to elevate any outfit. I love the idea of wearing these strappy options with a oversized suit look and a matching red wine hued lip look.

  5. 5/38

    Floral Disc Necklace

    Floral Disc Chord Necklace

    Zara

    Why it looks expensive: Statement jewellery will forever be a sign of luxury, used in collections around the world from Swarovski to Schiaparelli.

    Editor's note: In all honestly I can't believe the price tag of this statement necklace. Wear with a plain white t-shirt for an extra pop, a slinky slip dress and matching orange heels for a date night dinner or with anything that needs a burst of fun.

  6. 6/38

    Zara slip dress with lace detail

    Satin Dress with Lace Trim

    Zara

    Why it looks expensive: Stylish mavens including Sydney Sweeney and Victoria Beckham swear by a lace trim slip dress and both would love this Zara option.

    Editor's note: Pair with knee-high boots for a night out or with strappy black heels for an elegant occasion. I also love the idea of wearing this under a baggy t-shirt with sneakers for an off-duty option.

  7. 7/38

    Clip On Earrings from COS

    Double Hoop Clip On Earrings

    COS

    Why it looks expensive: Chunky earrings in all forms are an accessory that makes any ear stack look luxe.

    Editor's note: Not all of us have pierced ears and for those of us that do, heavy earrings are not a vibe. These clip-on options bost big luxury vibes without the hassle and pain of heavy ear candy.

  8. 8/38

    Merino stripe top from COS

    Crew-neck Merino Wool Top

    Why it looks expensive: Merino wool is a sought after fabric in the fashion sphere. Not only does it regulate your temperature it's also breathable and overly durable.

    Editor's note:  A funky top will forever have a special place in my wardrobe. Easy to layer and perfect for those cooler summer days, not to mention the pattern and colour are bang on trend for this season.

  9. 9/38

    H&M smocked blouse

    Smocked blouse

    H&M

    Why it looks expensive: Smocking is an embroidery technique used to gather fabric so that it can stretch and is often included in many Copen-core brand's collections.

    Editor's note: I for one love a flouncy-style blouse and this white option is perfect for summer. Wear with baggy jorts and your favourite ballerina pumps and lean into the Scandi-girl aesthetic.

  10. 10/38

    Zara seashell top

    Seashell Halter top

    Zara

    Why it looks expensive: Nothing beats a simple top with bold appliqué statements.

    Editor's note: Perfect for when the dress code is "jeans and a cute top" this sweetheart neckline halterneck is just the ticket. I love the idea of wearing it with baggy jeans, a strappy heel and a slew of silver jewellery to match the shell appliqué.

  11. 11/38

    Reserved tote bag in black

    Shopper bag

    Reserved

    Why it looks expensive: Black leather-look tote bags are loved by the likes of Bella Hadid, the Olsen twins and every fashion icon alike, making it a wardrobe must-have.

    Editor's note: If you're still using a canvas tote bag to carry around your life essentials, please stop. There's no need for a bag to ruin a good outfit and this faux leather option is both affordable and cute.

  12. 12/38

    Cat-eye sunglasses from H&M

    Cat-eye sunglasses

    H&M

    Why it looks expensive: Both the colour red and the cat-eye sunglasses silhouette have been continuously on trend for months and it's likely not going to go anywhere soon.

    Editor's note: The easiest and arguably most stylish way to elevate any 'fit it with a bold pair of specs and these affordable options from H&M boast big luxury vibes on a highstreet budget.

  13. 13/38

    Suit jacket with belt

    Suit jacket with belt

    Mango

    Why it looks expensive: White suiting will forever be a style staple in the wardrobes of those most fashionable. A timeless classic that exudes luxury prowess.

    Editor's note: If you're after a wardrobe hero that you can always rely on, let it be a powerful blazer. This white option from Mango comes complete with a dainty belt, making styling options even more vast. Pair over a slinky slip dress, with matching trousers or with shorts and boots for a casual office-chic twist.

  14. 14/38

    Ruffle blouse from Stradivarius

    Flowing blouse with ruffles

    Stradivarius

    Why it looks expensive: This ruffled blouse screams Chloé in the best way possible.

    Editor's note: If it's good enough for Sienna Miller, it's good enough for me. If you're thinking of following in the aforementioned footsteps of one of the fashion sets most stylish, this blouse is just the ticket. Wear over a bikini and with baggy jorts or with a low-waist maxi skirt and a low-slung belt and revel in the compliments from it-girls everywhere.

  15. 15/38

    Cos Trench Coat

    Layered Double-Breasted Trench Coat

    COS

    Why it looks expensive: Finding a good trench coat is no easy feat and you can often tell from first glance whether or not it will stand the test of time. As you can see, this layered option from COS looks luxurious and will likely be a staple for years and years to come.

    Editor's note: Although we're meant to be frolicking around the park in dainty linen dresses around this time of year, we can't change the UK weather, which often means a coat in summer is definitely needed. I love the idea of wearing a trench layer over a mini dress with boots as it's a light layer that will protect you from the unpredictable elements whilst keeping your ensemble sleek and chic.

  16. 16/38

    Reserved Blouse

    Blouse with tie detail

    Reserved

    Why it looks expensive: Ganni and Damson Madder stans will know exactly why this blouse looks luxe...

    Editor's note: Coined the 'Copenhagen blouse' by cool girls around the world, blouses with tie fronts are a simple statement that goes with everything.

  17. 17/38

    Zara dress

    Long Foil Halter Dress

    Zara

    Why it looks expensive: Made from metallic knit fabric, this weighted halterneck dress hugs all the right places which is always a sign of a well-made garment.

    Editor's note: If you're on the hunt for a glamorous dress for your next date night dinner or holiday escape, please let it be this open-back, halterneck silver dress from Zara. Because it packs a punch on its own, you can get away with wearing a set of your favourite flat sandals.

  18. 18/38

    Maxi FLower High Heels from Zara

    Maxi FLower High Heels

    Zara

    Why it looks expensive: Bold heels are a signature in many designer collections and floral heels in particular are hotter than hot right now.

    Editor's note:  We all know that the easiest way to breathe life into a plain outfit is with a cold shoe choice. These affordable floral options from Zara talk a big game and will elevate every summer 'fit.

  19. 19/38

    Asymmetric Studded Belt from Stradivarius

    Asymmetric Studded Belt

    Stradivarius

    Why it looks expensive: Both Sienna Miller and Rita Ora love a Y2K-inspired chunky belt, so why can't we?

    Editor's note: Wear over a maxi skirt, slung on your hips over a mini dress or with your favourite pair of jeans, this studded belt is a one way ticket to it-girl status.

  20. 20/38

    Vase graphic T-shirt from Pull and Bear

    Vase graphic T-shirt

    Pull & Bear

    Why it looks expensive: Cool girls around the world are obsessed with oversized graphic tee's, donning them with lace skirts and chunky boots for all occasions.

    Editor's note: Nothing beats a comfortable outfit that also looks cute and this boxy t-shirt is perfect for exactly that. Wear with shorts, a skirt, over a silk slip or with jeans and revel in the compliments.

  21. 21/38

    Striped suit waistcoat from Mango

    Striped suit waistcoat

    Mango

    Why it looks expensive: Both celebs and cool girls alike have been loving pin-striped waistcoats, including Alexa Chung and Elsa Hosk.

    Editor's note: Easy to style with jeans, a maxi skirt, a mini skirt or with a set of linen trousers, this scoop-necked option will be a summer wardrobe savior. 

  22. 22/38

    Plain knit top from Zara

    Plain top with back buttons

    Zara

    Why it looks expensive: Because of the cut of this top this could easily be from Jacquemus or Cult Gaia.

    Editor's note: Personally, matcha-green is one of my favourite hue's at the moment and it's made even better when in a knit fabric. I love the idea pg wearing this with a set of baggy Jorts and boots in the summer.

  23. 23/38

    COS bubble hem skirt

    Ballon hem maxi skirt

    COS

    Why it looks expensive: The fashion world is obsessed with a bubble hem at the minute and this maxi option exudes high fashion girly in the best way.

    Editor's note: There's nothing better than a wardrobe staple that goes with everything and is also overly chic. You could wear this with a baby tee in summer, a jumper in autumn and a long trench in winter.

  24. 24/38

    Cheetah Print pants from reserved

    Printed Trousers

    Reserved

    Why it looks expensive: Cheetah print is still very much on trend and is currently found in new collections from both Ganni and Damson Madder.

    Editor's note: Nothing beats a fun pair of pants in my eyes and these flared options are both affordable and funky. Pair with a puff sleeve blouse or a plain tank and enjoy the compliments.

  25. 25/38

    Lace dress with ruffle design

    Lace dress with ruffle design

    Mango

    Why it looks expensive: Delicate lace delights are hard to find now that boho chic has made a resurgence thanks to Sienna Miller.

    Editor's note: Though this is on the price side due to it being from Mango's 'Capsule' collection, it would be hard to find a dress as beautiful with a more affordable pricetag. Perfect for wedding guest events, date night dinners, layered under an over sized t-shirt or on its own, this match-green delight is set to be a sell-out.

  26. 26/38

    H&M red dress

    Smocked bandeau dress

    H&M

    Why it looks expensive: Both the colour red and smocked texture are currently doing the round in the fashion sphere at the moment. 

    Editor's note: I love a summer dress that can both be worn to a picnic in the park and dressed up for a dinner date with my nearest and dearest. This smocked option from H&M is perfect for those who like me, love to style their clothes for different occasions. I love the idea of wearing this over a crisp white button-up and paired with strappy white heels. 

  27. 27/38

    Classic long sleeve tee

    Monki

    Why it looks expensive: The bow craze is still very much on trend, loved by fashion moguls, designers and everyone in between.

    Editor's note: If there are two things I love more than most it's bow motifs and graphic t-shirts. This long sleeve is the perfect seasonal layer, easy to wear with jeans, shorts or a skirt or over a silk slip dress when the sun starts to set.

  28. 28/38

    Mango knit blue top

    Button halter top

    Mango

    Why it looks expensive: Knitted goods are forever a style statement and this baby blue option looks as though it could be from Gigi Hadid's brand Guest In Residence.

    Editor's note: This effortlessly cute knit with a built-in necktie is giving major Carrie Bradshaw goes to festival vibes. I love the idea of wearing this with the matching shorts and knee-high chunky boots or with a white linen maxi skirt.

  29. 29/38

    & Other Stories  Crocheted Fringe Tank Top

    Crocheted Fringe Tank Top

    & Other Stories

    Why it looks expensive: Crochet is having a major moment right now and many luxe brands are including the knit technique in their collections.

    Editor's note: I love how this easy-to-wear white tank features an open-back design and appliqued flowers. This would look so cute over a bright bikini and maxi skirt while on holiday or even with jeans and a pair of sandals for a picnic afternoon.

  30. 30/38

    Arket KOMONO Ana Sunglasses

    KOMONO Ana Sunglasses

    Arket

    Why it looks expensive: Bold framed sunglasses are a luxury brand hallmark and these oval lens options could easily be from Loewe.

    Editor's note: Investing in a good pair of summer sunglasses is essential for summer, however finding a pair that is both chic and affordable is no easy feat. These quality options are perfect for those who are known for either losing, breaking or lending their beloved sunnies to a friend who never gives them back.

  31. 31/38

    COS The Structured Tote - Leather

    The Structured Tote - Leather

    COS

    Why it looks expensive: When I first saw this leather tote option I honestly thought it was from Victoria Beckham because it's that dreamy.

    Editor's note: I for one am swooning over this white structured tote because not only does it look designer, but it's also wildly interesting to look at, easily elevating any ensemble.

  32. 32/38

    Arket Triangle Leather Scarf

    Triangle Leather Scarf

    Arket

    Why it looks expensive: Leather is a luxury material and this scarf is giving major The Row energy.

    Editor's note: This luxe accessory is the easiest way to spruce up any simple outfit. I love the idea of wearing this with a double denim outfit and brown cowboy boots to really channel Beyonce’s latest style love. 

  33. 33/38

    Point-Toe Pumps from & Other Stories

    Point-Toe Pumps

    & Other Stories

    Why it looks expensive: Sheer in all forms is majorly trending right now. 

    Editor's note: You can never go wrong with a classic black heel. I love these sheer options as they are still classic and go with everything but are also slightly different from your usual.

  34. 34/38

    Stradivarius  Double Sateen Bow

    Double Sateen Bow

    Stradivarius

    Why it looks expensive: Bows in all variations are being loved by the likes of Simone Rocha, Miu Miu, Prada and more.

    Editor's note: We can’t escape the bow craze and to be honest, we don't want to. These double-looped bow clips from Stradivarius are the easiest way to bow-tify anything. Clip them in your hair, on your sneakers, to your handbag, jean loop, boyfriend or anywhere you feel needs a little girl touch.

  35. 35/38

    Arket  Suede Tote Bag

    Suede Tote Bag

    Arket

    Why it looks expensive: There's something about brown suede that just feels luxe. 

    Editor's note: Obsessed. I mean look at it. Excessively oversized, this brown suede tote quite literally could fit everything and the kitchen sink. This bag boasts big high fashion energy and could easily be mistaken for the designer brand. *chefs kiss*

  36. 36/38

    John Lewis Longline Trench Coat, Stone

    Longline Trench Coat

    John Lewis ANYDAY

    Why it looks expensive: I love the buttons and extra attention to detail this coat has. Because it is made from cotton this coat is structured and will hold it's shape. 

    Editor's note: If there's one wardrobe essential every fashion fanatic should have in their wardrobe it's a chic trench. I am in love with this John Lewis ANYDAY option in the colourway 'Stone' because it can be worn with basically everything in your wardrobe. Great for all seasons, including summer as a light layer or in winter over your favourite knit. 

  37. 37/38

    ARKET  Printed Silk Scarf

    Printed Silk Scarf

    Arket

    Why it looks expensive: I feel like the black and white colourway paired with the line design on this scarf makes it look like it could be from anywhere. 

    Editor's note: If you’re looking for a simple accessory to spice up your style game, then a silk scarf is definitely it. Easily worn in a multitude of ways, a silk scarf is your best friend when it comes to bad hair days, chilly winter breezes and when you forget you have lunch plans and need to look fab. I love tying my silk scarf around my handbag strap for an extra pop of colour.

  38. 38/38

    Arket bag

    Leather Shoulder Bag

    Arket

    Why it looks expensive: This satchel-esque mini bag is understated enough to look like luxury.

    Editor's note: Arket is known for making some of the best bags on the high street and this retro-inspired leather number is no different. I would wear this bag with everything and anything and use it everyday.

How we chose the pieces:

Aesthetic: After combing through the internet's top high street fashion websites, we have selected the pieces that look categorically luxe. Despite boasting a modest price point, these buys could be mistaken for designer. That could mean a beautiful, flattering bias cut, a carefully constructed print, rich embellishment or another thoughtful design detail.

Price: We have tried to keep pieces in this edit affordable, under the £250 mark, except for items made from precious materials.

Why you should trust me:

I am Hello! Fashion’s Fashion Features Writer. With a love for all things fashion (the quirkier the better), I can usually be found playing dress-up in my own wardrobe, watching Gilmore Girls for the 8th time or finding new outfit inspo and DIY musts on TikTok, nothing in my closet is safe from a safety-pin bow embellishment. I have been in the styling world for almost 5 years now, specialising in editorial features, luxury campaigns and music videos. As for the world of magazines, I have worked for various digital and print publications around the world, focusing on fashion. Basically, fashion is my bread and butter.

HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.

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